Ongar's Mark Cavendish has suffered a separated shoulder after crashing in the opening stage of the Tour de France

Ongar's Mark Cavendish has suffered a separated shoulder after crashing near the finish line of the first stage of the Tour de France in Harrogate.

The Manxman came off his bike after colliding with Australian rider Simon Gerrans 350m from the finish line of the first stage in Yorkshire.

It has since been confirmed Cavendish suffered a 'separation between the collarbone and acromion'.

Different from a dislocated shoulder, a separated shoulder occurs as a result of downward force being applied to the superior part of the acromion, which can happen by falling directly on the acromion or striking the acromion.

Omega Pharma-Quick Step have this evening released a statement on their website to confirm a final decision on Cavendish's participation will be taken tomorrow morning.

Said Cavendish: "I'm gutted about the crash today. It was my fault. I'll personally apologise to Simon Gerrans as soon as I get the chance.

"In reality, I tried to find a gap that wasn't really there. I wanted to win today, I felt really strong and in a great position to contest the sprint thanks to the unbelievable efforts of my team.

"Sorry to all the fans that came out to support - it was truly incredible."

Cavendish, who was bidding for his 26th stage win on 'Le Tour', was earlier taken to hospital before Omega Pharma-Quick Step's team doctor revealed the sprinter had not suffered a break of the collarbone, as originally feared.

The 29-year-old, who's mother was born in Harrogate, managed to complete the first stage but saw Marcel Kittel of Giant-Shimano claim an opening-stage win.